Entries by Matthew Ma

Malaysia Negeri Sembilan Backs Vape Ban, Awaits Clear Laws

The Negeri Sembilan state government fully supports a ban on the sale and use of vapes but is awaiting clear and firm federal regulations before enforcing it, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun. He emphasized that without specific laws, any prohibition would be ineffective, as sales and usage could continue unchecked.

Austria Plans to Ban Disposable E-Cigarettes

Austria is set to ban disposable e-cigarettes (vapes), following the lead of several other European countries. Health State Secretary Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig announced the planned prohibition, justifying it with both public health and environmental concerns. She highlighted that these single-use products contain harmful substances and often serve as an entry point to smoking for young people.

Vaping vs. THC Drinks: Which Cannabis Option Is Right for You?

Cannabis isn’t what it used to be. While cannabis flowers are still one of the favorites, the modern shelves tell a different story. You’ll find discreet vapes, mellow edibles, and now THC seltzers lining fridges like fizzy drinks. More people are ditching smoking entirely. A report by Global Industry Analysts found that the cannabis beverages […]

Bahrain Parliament to Debate Ban on E-Cigarettes and Vapes

The Bahraini Parliament is set to discuss a draft law that would ban the sale and circulation of electronic shisha and e-cigarettes (vapes) throughout the Kingdom. MP Jalal Kazem Al-Mahfoudh announced that the proposal will be addressed in the upcoming parliamentary session, aiming to protect young people from the growing health risks associated with vaping.

Malaysia Debates Vape Tax vs. Total Ban

A recent announcement under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to potentially expand pro-health taxes to include vape products has sparked confusion and concern among anti-smoking advocates. They are now demanding clarity from the government on whether its ultimate goal is to regulate and tax vapes or to implement a complete ban on their sale and […]

Russia: Smoking at Home Can Lead to 1500 Ruble Fine

In Russia, smoking or vaping at home, including on a private balcony, can now result in a fine of up to 1,500 rubles if it disturbs neighbors. Lawyers are reminding citizens that while the act isn’t explicitly banned in one’s own residence, the law protects a neighbor’s right to a clean and safe living environment.

Mexico City Pushes for Local Vape & E-Cigarette Ban

A local lawmaker in Mexico City is pushing for the approval of an initiative to ban the use of vapes and electronic cigarettes, aiming to align the capital’s legislation with existing federal prohibitions. Deputy Alberto Vanegas Arenas, representing the Morena party, stated that the Mexico City Congress will soon approve his proposal.

Russia Imposes Criminal Penalties for Unmarked Vapes

A new law took effect in Russia on August 3rd, introducing criminal liability for the circulation of unmarked nicotine-containing products, including vape liquids. This measure extends criminal penalties, previously focused on traditional tobacco, to all nicotine products lacking special government-mandated marking.